Council to Improve STEM Education in W.Va.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin is assembling a council of education and industry leaders to improve science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities in West Virginia.

Credit Ashton Marra / West Virginia Public Broadcasting

The panel formed Thursday aims to spur growth in STEM degree graduates over the next decade. Tomblin said an education push will prepare for projects like a proposed ethane cracker plant in Wood County. The initiative could require thousands of qualified workers.

The council includes a variety of state education and economic development officials, along with representatives from oil and gas, petrochemical, technology, manufacturing, logistics, aerospace and chemical industries.

Improved K-12 instruction, post-secondary education and training, and enhanced energy and natural gas programs are among the group's goals.

The council will submit findings and recommendations to the governor by Dec. 1.